Effect of Salinity and Nitrogen Status on Nitrogen Uptake by Tall Fescue Turf |
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Authors: | Daniel C. Bowman Grant R. Cramer Dale A. Devitt |
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Affiliation: | 1. Department of Crop Science , North Carolina State University , Raleigh, NC, USA;2. Department of Biochemistry , University of Nevada , Reno, NV, USA;3. Department of Environmental and Resource Science , University of Nevada , Reno, NV, USA |
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Abstract: | ABSTRACT Nitrogen (N) absorption is inhibited by root zone salinity, which could result in increased NO3 leaching. Conversely, N absorption is enhanced by moderate N deficiency. Because turfgrasses are grown under N-limiting conditions, it is important to understand the interactive effects of salinity and N deficiency on N uptake. This study examined the effect of N status (replete versus deficient) and salinity on N (15NO3 and 15 NH4) uptake and partitioning by tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.). Two cultivars (‘Monarch’ and ‘Finelawn I’) were grown in nutrient solution culture. Treatments included N level (100% or 25% of maximum N demand) and salinity (0, 40, 80, and 120 meq L?1) in a factorial arrangement. Absorption of NO3 and NH4 was greater in low-N than in high-N cultures, but was reduced by salinity under both N treatments. Salinity reduced partitioning of absorbed N to leaves and increased retention in roots. These results suggest that turfgrass managers should consider irrigation water quality when developing their fertilizer program. |
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Keywords: | Nitrogen deficiency Nitrogen partitioning |
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